Brooklyn Center, a first-ring suburb of Minneapolis and a southern neighbor of Brooklyn Park, is a city with a diverse array of employment opportunities, recreational activities, ethnic eateries, and worship centers. As one of the largest and most diverse cities in Hennepin County, the city is now home to more than 30,000 people.

A small farming community until the 1950s, Brooklyn Center experienced much of its growth during the post-war housing boom, evident in the abundance of well-priced ranches and ramblers. However, that attractiveness has led to a tight market – at the moment, the city has only 1.6 months real estate supply, almost a month less than the metro area as a whole (Fig. 1, above). This is consistent with the Twin Cities trend of low inventory, resulting in increasing sales prices (Fig. 2, below).

Still, though Brooklyn Center has seen nearly a 40% increase in sales prices over the last three years, the city continues to have some of the lowest monthly payments in the metro. There are also multiple home purchase and rehab programs in place that can aid potential homebuyers and current homeowners. Whether you’re looking for a quaint starter home or a uniquely gorgeous waterfront property, you can find it in Brooklyn Center.

A perhaps surprising factor that has contributed to the limited housing inventory? Residents’ pride in and satisfaction with the city has increased by 38% since 2009, due to improved civic and social services. When residents are happy, they tend to stay put in their homes longer and encourage friends and family to move there as well, thus creating more competition for fewer available houses. Watch the video below for more info on the results of the recent resident’s survey.

Several prominent companies are located in Brooklyn Center, providing convenience for those who live in the area and prefer a short commute. Caribou Coffee established their headquarters at 3900 Lake Breeze Avenue in 2004 and currently has about 200 employees at that address. The 125,000 sq.ft. facilities house the company’s roasting operations, administrative offices, and a large warehouse.

Another beverage company that has a presence in Brooklyn Center is Surly Brewing. Long before Prospect Park’s Brewery and Beer Hall was even a twinkle in founder Omar Ansari’s eyes, he opened the original brewery on Dusharme Drive. After the so-called “Surly Bill” was passed in 2013, allowing breweries to sell their product on site, a taproom was added to the venue and it became a local destination for craft beer enthusiasts.  Although this location is no longer open to the public for tours or purchases, it still operates as a brewery.  

If you’d prefer an old-fashioned malt over a latte or a cold pint, then you have to try The 50’s Grill. With 28 tantalizing offerings, it’s easy to see how this small throwback diner could have served more than two million shakes since opening over 25 years ago. Other nostalgic nosh that’ll get you right in the ‘50s feels include just-like-Grandma’s meatloaf, patty melts, and handmade pies.

Obviously Brooklyn Center has Americana down pat. But what about ethnic eateries? Well, BC has got you covered on that front as well. From authentic Kenyan and Liberian cuisine to Jamaican and Caribbean, from Indian to Vietnamese and Thai, even Greek-American fusion, there truly is an option to whet your whistle, no matter what you are craving. We’d expect nothing less from one of Minnesota’s most diverse cities!

Speaking of having a lot of choices, let’s turn to education – did you know there are FOUR school districts serving Brooklyn Center? This phenomenon is a result of decisions made during the area’s rural past in the 1800s, long before Brooklyn Center became a village or the city it is today. Currently, the only district entirely encompassed within the city is ISD 286, which is one of the area’s biggest employers. One school in the district, Brooklyn Center High, is seen as a model full-service community school, offering services such as a food shelf, legal counsel, and more. These services benefit not only students but their families as well, and have led to increased attendance and graduation rates. Watch this video to learn more about all of the services provided by this school and others like it in the community.

Beyond the school walls, there are many other opportunities for family fun and recreation. For example, Brookdale Library – which originally opened in 1981, underwent renovation in 2002-03, and re-opened in 2004 – is a favorite gathering space for families and community happenings. Likewise, the community center is a popular recreational destination, especially because of its Olympic-sized pool. There are also community parks, regional parks, and even an Arboretum for all the outdoor enthusiasts out there!

Brooklyn Center residents love their community activities, and the most beloved of them all is the annual Earle Brown Days Festival. Held the last weekend of June, this event is now in its 35th year! It was named after Earle Brown, the founder of the Minnesota State Patrol and first Sheriff of Hennepin County. Festivities include a parade up Dupont Avenue, a community market, music, and a fireworks display.

Another landmark named after the Brooklyn Center celebrity is the Earle Brown Heritage Center, which plays host to hundreds of events throughout the year, including weddings, business meetings, and something called The Chef Experience.  With several nearby hotels, this is a very convenient location for large conferences and celebrations.

Just a quick drive down Shingle Creek Parkway will take you to the aptly named Shingle Creek Crossing, the shopping area that replaced Brookdale Center. Taking over the site of the Twin Cities’ third mall – which proudly served Brooklyn Center for nearly 50 years before its demise in 2010 – is no easy feat, but Shingle Creek is doing its best to satisfy the needs of BC residents. As the retail hub of the city, it features national retailers and just about every fast food spot you can think of. It certainly looks a lot different than it did when the area was first developed in the 1960s! While Dayton’s had been the anchor store for many years, subsequent retailers have each done their part to attract shoppers. The next store looking to be a key presence at Shingle Creek Crossing: Hom Furniture, slated to take over the old Kohl’s building at the corner of Bass Lake Road and Highway 100.

Other areas are ripe for revitalization as well. Former NBA star and hometown hero Devean George is aiming to bring a mixed-use development (mostly market-rate apartments) to the site previously occupied by Brookdale Ford. Meanwhile, new Senior Housing will be opening later this summer along 69th Avenue.

The Regal Cinema (seen above) is surely a familiar sight for all who pass the intersection of I-694 and Hwy. 252. Well, take one last good look at it, because by summer it will be gone, to be replaced with the Twin Cities’ new premier Topgolf destination. City officials and developers hope that the “high-tech all-season golf center” will attract thousands of visitors and new residents, especially millennials, to the first-tier suburb.

All these changes mean more people will be spending time in Brooklyn Center, which calls for better transit options. While the suburb is already relatively well connected to Downtown Minneapolis via public transportation, it will soon be even more accessible with the Blue Line light rail extension, which will have several stops along the western border. Until that project is finished in 2021, commuters can look forward to the C-Line, expected to start running in 2019. Portions of I-94 are also currently undergoing roadwork, so if you live in Brooklyn Center and work in the city (or vice versa) and want to avoid the headache of construction season, public transit may be a viable alternative for you.

Lastly, if you have ever driven on Freeway Blvd., we’re sure you have seen a large, imposing black and gray building. Did you know that it is home to the Minneapolis Division of the FBI? This “fortress-like” building has been here for about five years. There are even internships available!

Do you live in Brooklyn Center? Tell us what you love most about the city in the comments section!

Neighborhood Resources

Schools	Faith Communities
Anoka-Hennepin District No. 11	All Nations Christian Fellowship
Brooklyn Center District No. 286	BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
Northwest Suburban Integration District No. 6078	Brookdale Covenant Church
Odyssey Academy	Brooklyn United Methodist Church
Osseo District No. 279	Christ Covenant Chapel
Robbinsdale District No. 281	Church of the Nazarene
	Cross of Glory Lutheran Church
	Dunamis Praise Chapel International
	Imam Husain Islamic Center
	Jehovah Jireh Church of God in Christ
	Kenyan Community Seventh-day Adventist Church
	Korean Presbyterian Church
	Lutheran Church of The Master
	Lutheran Church -The Triune God
	Northbrook Alliance Church
	St. Alphonsus Catholic Church
Public Parks & Attractions	Local Restaurants
Full List of City Parks	50’s Grill
Brookdale Library	Great India
Centerbrook Golf Course	Hiep Thanh BBQ & Deli
Earle Brown Heritage Center	House of Hui’s
Eugene H. Hagel Arboretum	Jambo Africa Restaurant
North Mississippi Regional Park	Jammin’ Wings
Shingle Creek Crossing Shops	Que Viet Village House
	Scoreboard Pizza
	Slim’s
	Xin Xin

Southwest Minneapolis is made up of nine distinct, yet cohesive, neighborhoods: East Harriet, Kingfield, Tangletown, Windom, Kenny, Lynnhurst, Armatage, Fulton, and Linden Hills. The community covers a lot of ground, stretching eastward from France Avenue to Nicollet Avenue, and southward from W. 36th Street to the Crosstown Highway. Within these 7 square miles, you will find a wide variety of housing styles, recreational activities, dining options, and shopping opportunities. From casual eateries and hipster hangouts in Kingfield to upscale cuisine and boutiques in Fulton (and everything in between), Southwest Minneapolis is a diverse community with an array of amenities and offerings that will suit your family’s needs.

Whenever you’re ready to start exploring the community, we suggest to first download the XSW app, which allows you to lookup all the local happenings and nearby businesses (and score some pretty good deals!). The Experience Southwest website also shows which businesses are hiring, as well as any commercial sites that are available, in case you are looking to open your own storefront in the area. The app and website are just a couple of the ways Southwest Minneapolis supports its small business owners. Proprietors who join the Southwest Business Association have access to member benefits such as shared marketing efforts and a strong support network.

You can tell that there is a deliberate promotion and encouragement of small businesses, which lends to the one-of-a-kind vibe you experience when venturing from neighborhood to neighborhood. Rather than a community inundated with fast food chains and big box stores, many businesses are family affairs, where the owners know their customers by name and you can guarantee that you’ll be treated like part of the family.

An exemplary case of mom-and-pop success is Curran’s Family Restaurant, which has thrived on the corner of 42nd and Nicollet since 1948. What began as a carhop drive-in (with the Twin Cities’ first car-to-kitchen ordering system), has evolved into a beloved family-run eatery with an Early Riser special that can’t be beat. 

But just because you see nary a bullseye or golden arch within the community, don’t think that means Southwest Minneapolis lacks convenience. Located just fifteen minutes from Downtown Minneapolis at its furthest corner, residents have easy access to the city center via major roadways, I-35W, and multiple high frequency bus routes. In fact, most residents spend only 15-30 minutes commuting to and from work per day.

Also, don’t worry that the lack of franchises somehow means that Southwest Minneapolis is stuck in the past. Quite the contrary is true – there is a freshness to the neighborhoods here, as seen by the recent arrival of new, unique businesses and the increased development of modern housing options over the last decade or so. This anti-staleness is also echoed in the presence of Neighborhood Roots, an organization that runs both the Kingfield and Fulton Farmers Markets, a further nod to the community’s efforts to shop and support local businesses while keeping things fresh.

 

As you might imagine, because of the neighborhoods’ varying personalities, there are many different housing options as well (see individual neighborhood profiles below for more info). This also means that although the median sales price (MSP) for Southwest Minneapolis as a whole is a healthy $350,000 (compared to greater Minneapolis at $232,000), values vary greatly between neighborhoods. For example, the MSP in Kingfield – where many homes tend to be smaller and sit near I-35W – is only around $260,000. Meanwhile, in Lynnhurst, where a number of homes are sizeable properties along Lake Harriet’s southern edge, the MSP skews higher to about $481,000. And while some neighborhoods have seen sales prices trending upward recently, a few are actually on the decline, so that is another factor to consider when thinking about where to purchase in Southwest Minneapolis. These numbers and trends are reflected in the two figures below:

Fig. 1

Fig. 2

Although home prices differ from neighborhood to neighborhood, one characteristic they share is that each of them boasts an active neighborhood association that encourages community involvement and camaraderie. With that said, let’s take a quick dive into each of the neighborhoods that make up Southwest Minneapolis.

East Harriet

As you might discern from the name, one of the main features of this neighborhood is Lake Harriet, which forms part of the western border. Every January, the sky turns into a kaleidoscope of colors thanks to the Lake Harriet Kite Festival, the perfect remedy for those winter doldrums. When spring rolls around, it’s time for another feast for the eyes: the Lyndale Park Rose Garden begins to bloom and blossom. Your eyes can be pleased year round by taking a look at the impressive homes along Lake Harriet Parkway – we’re talking massive luxury homes that sell for upwards of $1 million. Venture a few blocks eastward, though, and you’ll discover the comparably modest childhood home of actors James Arness and Peter Graves, tucked among similar two-story homes and duplexes.

Before crossing Lyndale to the Kingfield neighborhood, don’t forget to sample the belly-satisfying pub grub at Harriet’s Inn, a relative newcomer, but already a favorite amongst locals.

  

Kingfield

Speaking of yummy food, whether you are in the mood for Cuban, French, Japanese, or Spanish cuisine, you can find it in Kingfield. From lauded joints like Victor’s 1959 Cafe to the quaint boulangerie Patisserie 46 to all the exceptional restaurants on Nicollet Avenue, there’s something to please every palate.

The neighborhood is not only diverse in ethnic eateries, but also in its residents. Like the neighborhood’s namesake, this community puts an emphasis on empowering its residents and aiding those who are less fortunate. Kingfield also has an active arts community, with projects such as the Mural Map, the Empty Bowls event, art installations at MLK, Jr. Park, and the Center for Performing Arts. Neighbors are able to further connect by participating in gatherings such as the annual Garden Tour, PorchFest, and Nicollet Open Streets. Follow Kingfield on Instagram for even more inside scoop on what it’s like to live in this corner of Southwest Minneapolis. And keep in mind that, in this neighborhood, most homes were built before 1920, and include bungalows, prairie-style, arts & crafts, and other period-revival styles.

Tangletown

The neighborhood (originally called “Fuller”) was aptly renamed in 1996 for its curving streets, which mimic the free-flowing Minnehaha Creek that runs through the southern end of town. But don’t worry, original namesake Margaret Fuller is still honored through Fuller Park & Rec Center, the hub of community life. In fact, it is at the center of the neighborhood’s biggest day each year – the annual 4th of July Parade and Celebration. The festivities harken back to simpler times of yesteryear, which is exactly the vintage, small town vibe T-town residents enjoy. This sentiment is reflected in the housing as well; most houses are Period Revivals from the 1910s-20s, but there is also a fair number of Victorians, Lustron metal houses, and modernist styles. Most businesses are concentrated along Grand Avenue, Lyndale Avenue, Nicollet Avenue, and W. Diamond Lake Road.

But if you’re willing to take a trip off the beaten path through the neighborhood’s winding streets, a visit to the Washburn Park Water Tower is definitely worth it. Although it might not be the most obvious travel destination – a water tower, really? – once you see it in person, you’ll understand the decades of people who have been fascinated by its architecture, including the stoic knight and vigilant eagle sculptures (it’s even on the National Register of Historic Places).

Windom

Not to be confused with Windom Park in Northeast Minneapolis, this neighborhood occupies the southeast corner of the SW Minneapolis community. It’s well connected to the surrounding suburbs of Richfield and Edina by I-35W and Highway 62. There’s a full range of housing choices, with a majority designed as single-family homes and duplexes – about 40% of dwellings are multi-family units, which are built closer to major transportation corridors and are primarily from the 1970s. Though mostly residential, there are several pockets of commercial activity scattered throughout Windom, and there is also a large industrial area near the southern border. Meanwhile, art enthusiasts can enjoy visiting The Museum of Russian Art, which houses a collection of pieces from the 20th century, and is the only of its kind in the U.S.

Kenny

Kenny, like its eastern neighbor Windom, is a mostly residential area. According to the city website, “houses in the neighborhood tend to have been built in the 1940s or later and are generally larger than the houses in adjacent neighborhoods such as Armatage and Windom. The neighborhood has a balanced mix of longtime and new residents.” These residents appreciate the good access to schools, public services, recreational activities, shopping, and restaurants. Its hidden gem is Grass Lake, but other standouts include Kenny Park and Peter’s Billiards, which you have probably spotted if you have ever traveled on I-35W. Located on the southern edge of the Kenny neighborhood, this 37,000 square foot game room and furniture store (the largest of its kind in the Midwest), has been family-owned and operated since 1957. It’s expanded past just selling pool tables and pinball machines, and is now a “complete lifestyle store.” Speaking of lifestyles, experience a year in the life of a Kenny resident by checking out the community’s photo project, Kenny365, which featured a different snapshot of the neighborhood each day from 2013 to 2014.

Lynnhurst

Bisected by Minnehaha Creek, Lynnhurst occupies just under 1 square mile in the center of Southwest Minneapolis. It also borders the southern edge of Lake Harriet, meaning there are some stunning and expansive lakefront properties – homes with 5+ bedrooms are common along the parkway – that can be yours for a cool $1-5 million. Beyond that, the neighborhood is a treasure trove of unique architecture, featuring multiple designs by famed architects, Purcell and Elmslie. These houses are characterized by their Prairie Style, non- “cookie cutter” curb appeal, and abstract landscaping. Community involvement is encouraged (residents can connect through Next Door and Facebook), and one annual event that always brings residents together is Summer Festival held at Lynnhurst Park. Also, if something called Middlemoon Creekwalk doesn’t peak your interest, we don’t know what will.

  

Well, we have an idea of what might get your attention. How about 37 varieties of malts and shakes at The Malt Shop Restaurant, a Bryant Avenue staple since 1973. Did we mention they offer their full menu for Bite Squad delivery? Score! If you’re in the mood for something a little less traditional, then head next door to George and the Dragon. Though it may seem like just your average British pub, it’s actually got a unique Asian flair that’s earned rave reviews from foodies across the nation.

Armatage

Annexed from Richfield in the 1920s, Armatage experienced most development from the ‘40s through the ‘60s, which resulted in most homes being built as ramblers or 1.5-story abodes. It was named after Maude Armatage, the first woman elected to the city’s park board. Fittingly enough, there is now a lively bistro called Cafe Maude located on the main commercial thoroughfare, Penn Avenue. Another local favorite, Pizzeria Lola, was visited by Mr. Triple D himself (Guy Fieri, of course) in 2012. Like other eateries that have been featured on the show, Pizzeria Lola has since experienced an overwhelming increase in sales. That same year, Armatage was named the best neighborhood by City Pages (coincidence? We think not). It’s also known for its annual summer festival, a celebration that brings the community together in the beautiful neighborhood park.

Fulton

Last but certainly not least, we’ve got Fulton. Like East Harriet and Lynnhurst, Fulton sits on the edge of Lake Harriet, which helps boost home values. Many homes in the area are Craftsman style, similar to neighboring Linden Hills. Speaking of neighbors, Fulton also shares a boundary with Edina, which definitely has its perks, as residents and visitors have easy access to the amenities of 50th & France. There are two other commercial nodes along W. 50th Street, at Xerxes and Penn Avenues. Another reason it’s categorized as one of the most popular neighborhoods in Minneapolis is because it is home to some of the best public schools in the state, including Southwest High School (just outside the northern border), which previously ranked as Minnesota’s top high school. If you’re a current resident hoping to get more involved within the community, there are multiple ways, including joining the Arts Committee or the Block Club.

To read about the final Southwest Minneapolis neighborhood, Linden Hills, click here.

Hopefully you have enjoyed this tour of Southwest Minneapolis! As you can see, this community has so much variety and something to offer everyone. The neighborhoods, although different and special in their own ways, embody a philosophy that we could all stand to follow these days: “be unique yet united.”

 

Neighborhood Resources

Schools	Faith Communities
Anthony Middle School	Annunciation Church
Armatage Montessori	Bethlehem Lutheran Church
Burroughs Elementary School	Bryant Avenue Baptist Church
Carondelet Catholic School	Faith Free Lutheran Church
Clara Barton Open School	Incarnation Catholic Church
Kenny Elementary School	Judson Memorial Baptist Church
Lake Harriet Upper Elementary	Knox Presbyterian Church
Ramsey Middle School	Lake Harriet United Methodist Church
Southwest High School	Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd
Stonebridge World School	Lynnhurst Congregational UCC
Washburn High School	Macedonia Baptist Church
Windom School	Mayflower Church
	Mt. Olivet Church
	Pilgrim Lutheran Church
	Richfield United Methodist Church
	Shir Tikvah Synagogue
	Southview Seventh-day Adventist Church
	St. John’s Lutheran Church
	The Church of Christ the King
	The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Public Parks & Attractions	Local Restaurants
See the full list of local and regional parks here.	Blackbird Cafe
Heffelfinger Fountain	Broders’ Cucina Italiana and Pasta Bar
Lyndale Park Rose Garden	Butter Bakery Cafe
Roberts Bird Sanctuary	Cafe Ena
	Cafe Maude
	Cocina Latina
	Curran’s Restaurant
	Five Watt Coffee
	George & the Dragon
	Harriet’s Inn
	Kings Wine Bar
	Kyatchi
	La Fresca
	Lake Harriet Pizza
	Michelangelo’s Master Pizzas
	Patisserie 46
	Pizzeria Lola
	Red Wagon Pizza
	Rincón 38
	Saguaro Restaurant
	Sparrow Cafe
	Sun Street Breads
	Terzo Vino Bar
	The Lowbrow
	The Malt Shop Restaurant
	The Roastery
	Victor’s 1959
	Whole Sum Kitchen
	Wise Acre Eatery

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…to visit Loring Park. The park has served as home to one of the Twin Cities’ most beloved holiday traditions, Holidazzle, since the event relocated from Nicollet Mall in 2015. A celebration of all things holiday and all things Minneapolis, Holidazzle brings together local vendors, ice skating, music, and movies to equal winter fun for all ages.

Another cold weather favorite is Winterfest, held annually in February: a night of caroling, carriage rides, crafting, and ice skating. Even though the holidays will be over by then, there’s no reason you can’t keep the festive spirit alive all winter long!

If venturing out in the -20 degree weather isn’t exactly your cup of tea, Loring Park is luckily beautiful to visit no matter the time of year. In the spring and summer, the Garden of the Seasons is in full bloom and features colorful florals and perennials, as well as wildlife (including the adorable resident albino squirrel!). A part of the #1 park system in America, Loring Park also boasts a nice-sized dog park and the Loring Community Arts Center, offering recreational programs (from cooking to yoga) and playing host to private events and receptions. Moreover, each summer, the park attracts large crowds for the Twin Cities Pride Festival and the Loring Park Arts Festival.

Originally called Central Park (yes, like that park in New York City), the park was renamed in 1890 to honor Charles Morgridge Loring, who was the first president of the park board in Minneapolis and is nicknamed the “Father of Minneapolis Parks.” Loring is largely responsible for negotiating the acquisition of large plots of private land throughout the city, especially along lake shorelines, and converting it to public parks in the 1880s.

Beyond the edges of the park itself is the rest of the neighborhood, which extends north to 394, west and south to I-94, and east to Highway 65 and 12th St. One of the neighborhood’s most photogenic sites is, of course, the Basilica of St. Mary. Known as “America’s first basilica,” St. Mary’s has hosted the Basilica Block Party each year since 1995, to raise funds to restore and preserve the historic landmark. With big name acts such as The Fray, Death Cab for Cutie, and Weezer taking the stage in the past, the Block Party is always one of the city’s biggest events of the summer.

Another recognizable neighborhood landmark is the Minneapolis Community & Technical College, colloquially known as MCTC. In 2014, the school celebrated 100 years of educational service to the diverse downtown community. Now covering more than 21 acres of land, MCTC enrolls nearly 13,000 students each year, which is about 5,000 more people than the entire neighborhood’s population!

Speaking of the local populace, many Loring Park residents are below age 34, married with no children, and are employed in health care or professional fields. These people in particular seem to be attracted to the neighborhood because of its proximity to downtown amenities and available housing styles, consisting mostly of condos, lofts, townhouses, and apartments – suitable to their childless and busy lifestyles (multi-family homes often require less maintenance than single family homes).

As you can see in the chart above, inventory is at its lowest point since June 2013, with just about 20 townhouse or condo units currently for sale. While the neighborhood is known for its characteristic brownstones, in recent years, there has also been an uptick in development of modern lofts and condos to keep up with demand (there’s always more room to build upward rather than outward). With a median sales price of $230,000, the neighborhood is relatively well-priced compared to the city as a whole, making it a popular place to settle for young professionals.

Along with new development, hip eateries and breweries such as Lakes and Legends, are bringing new energy to the neighborhood. Lakes and Legends Brewing Company, which just celebrated its first anniversary last week, often hosts community-centric events and markets that promote local artisans. Likewise, 4 Bells and The Third Bird draw a sophisticated yet relaxed clientele, with inviting venues and innovative yet accessible menus.

Even with all the popular newcomers, though, longtime staples such as The Nicollet Diner and Salsa a la Salsa still attract a loyal fanbase by offering delicious food at reasonable prices. Additionally, Cafe and Bar Lurcat is as much a favorite of critics as it is of swanky foodies, having won numerous awards over the 15 years it’s been open. It is admittedly pricier than other restaurants nearby, but the ambiance and cuisine surely justify the higher price point.

Brides-to-be have plenty of reason to visit Loring Park, with several bridal boutiques located in the neighborhood, such as a and bé and Che Bella (both pictured above) and annual bridal shows held at the Convention Center. There are also many churches, venues, and restaurants that are perfect for ceremonies and receptions in a nice central location. The nearby hotels, such as the Hyatt Regency and Millennium Hotel, are ideal for weddings – from hosting bridal parties to receptions to rooms for out-of-town guests and bride and groom suites.

Speaking of the Minneapolis Convention Center, it is certainly one of the most well-known features of the Loring Park neighborhood. Each year, the venue (with 475,000 square feet of exhibit space and 87 meeting rooms) holds hundreds of events, ranging from business meetings to private parties, the aforementioned bridal shows to home expos, ComicCon and beyond. If you’ve never been to the center in person, it’s definitely worth a visit, as the size, service, and happenings are all quite impressive.

Are you a resident of Loring Park, or thinking about moving to the area? Let us know in the comment section below!

Neighborhood Resources

Neighborhood Schools	Public Parks & Attractions
Child Garden Montessori School	Loring Greenway
Emerson Spanish Immersion Learning Center	Loring Park
Rayito de Sol	Minneapolis Convention Center
Faith Communities	Local Restaurants
Basilica of St. Mary	4 Bells
Central Lutheran Church	19 Bar
Episcopal Church in Minnesota	Asian Taste
Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church	Cafe & Bar Lurcat
Saint Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral	Eli’s Food & Cocktails
Westminster Presbyterian Church	Espresso Royale Cafe
Wooddale Church	Jerusalem’s Restaurant
	Lotus Vietnamese Restaurant
	Market Bar-B-Que
	Muffin Top Café
	North 45 Restaurant and Bar
	Ping’s Szechuan Bar & Grill
	Ryan’s Pub
	Salsa a La Salsa
	The Nicollet Diner
	The Third Bird

If you were in the vicinity of the southwest metro area this past September, there’s a high likelihood that you were impacted by some little event called the Ryder Cup. An estimated 250,000 fans (more than ten times the city’s year-round population) flocked to Chaska’s Hazeltine National Golf Club and the surrounding area to take part in the historic tournament with big name golfers including Phil Mickelson, Rory McIlroy, and Sergio Garcia. With a long-awaited U.S. victory on a course specifically designed to play to the American team’s strengths, Hazeltine (and subsequently Chaska) are officially on the map!

But even after all the crowds and camera crews departed (and, indeed, long before they arrived), Hazeltine is and has been the midwest’s premier destination for major championship golf. Lush grounds and beautiful landscaping make it an ideal choice for a picturesque day at the links along with exclusive private events such as weddings and corporate parties.

Speaking of scenic venues, the Oak Ridge Hotel and Conference Center attracts many to its lakeside facilities each year. (Undoubtedly, many of those Ryder Cup visitors had their reservations there.) Situated on 130 scenic acres on Lake McKnight, it’s easy to see why many choose Oak Ridge for their wedding locale or company retreat. But even if you’re just looking to escape from the hustle and bustle of the Twin Cities, the center acts as an idyllic, serene getaway.

If you’re looking to get away without ever leaving Chaska, though, a visit to the Chaska History Center will serve as a journey through time. Step inside the signature brick building and you’ll find everything from Native American artifacts to newspaper copies dating back to 1862 (10 years after the city’s founding). See the genealogical history of a dozen of Chaska’s oldest families, or take a look through photos depicting what life was like long before the advent of computers and cellphones (and remind your kids that, yes, there was a time before computers and cellphones).

  

Because of its small town feeling, it’s easy to forget that Chaska is a good-sized suburb with a lot of variety to offer, especially when it comes to entertainment and dining.

   

For starters, there’s the Chaska Curling Center. Opened in December of 2015, the center is currently home to the nation’s largest curling membership. What can we say? We Minnesotans definitely love our sports on ice! Spectators who prefer frosty mugs to frosty shoes can watch all the action from the toasty comfort of the attached Crooked Pint Ale House. Also adjacent to the Curling Center is the Chaska Event Center, another popular venue for wedding receptions.  

One of the city’s favorite destinations for families is the Chaska Valley Family Theater. Since its first production in 1996, the theater has been delighting audiences of all ages with traditional musicals featuring members of the local community. But over the years, a handful of plucky playwrights from the area have been given the opportunity to present their original works on the CVFT stage, much to the enjoyment of their local adoring fans.

Foodies can also rejoice, because there is no shortage of options when it’s time to chow down. From old-fashioned diners and malt shops, to Chinese, Italian, Japanese, and Mexican cuisine, there’s something to please everyone in the family.

The diversity in eateries reflects the city’s growing – and changing – populace. Like its northeastern neighbor Chanhassen, Chaska has really seen a population boom over the last few decades. In the last sixteen years alone, the population has grown by nearly 40%. To keep up with demand, as the population increases at a rate of about 500 households per year (with an expected peak in 2025), new development is on the rise. New build neighborhoods such as Chevalle, The Harvest, and Symphony Hills have sprung up all over town, resulting in a median home age of just 28 years. Tellingly, in the past six months, a majority of sold homes were under 20 years old. 

Over the last two years, Chaska’s median estimated home value has grown from $235,000 to $275,000. Compared to the entirety of Carver County, the rate of increase is about twice as fast.

No doubt, contributing to that impressive increase is the sale of many new construction homes within the past 12 months alone, most with 3-4+ bedrooms and 2000-2500 sq. ft. This typical home size is understandable as a majority of Chaska households are made up of married couples with adolescent and teenage children.

In spite of the city’s increasing population, though, Chaska has been able to successfully maintain its small town feel through the concentrated efforts of the City Council. After all, the city’s mission is to be the “best small town in Minnesota.” Indeed, in 2007, Money Magazine even ranked Chaska as the #8 best small town in the entire country. This accomplishment was achieved, in part, through seasonal community events such as River City Days and the Turkey Trot (coming up this weekend!). Organized efforts like Christmas in May also add to the feelings of closeness and camaraderie within the community.

As you can see, Chaska has a vibe all its own. Many may be tempted to write it off as just another stuffy suburb, but they’d be mistaken. Chaska has the warm inviting feel of a small town – compounded by its charming downtown area (complete with gazebo and historic mill) – while enjoying big city amenities in neighboring towns. Also home to the world’s largest mustache, Chaska brings a funky freshness to the ‘burban world!

Neighborhood Resources

Neighborhood Schools	Public Parks & Attractions
District 112: Eastern Carver County Schools	See a full list of city parks here
Guardian Angels Catholic School	Chaska Curling Center
Southwest Christian High School	Chaska Town Course
St. John’s Lutheran School	Chaska Valley Family Theater
The World Learner School	Dahlgreen Golf Club
	Hazeltine National Golf Club
	Minnesota Lanscape Arboretum
	World’s Largest Mustache
Faith Communities	Local Restaurants
Chaska Moravian Church	Chaska City Diner
Christ Victorious Lutheran Church	Chaska My Love
Church on the Hill	China Pagoda Restaurant
Crown of Glory Lutheran Church	Crooked Pint Ale House
Cross of Grace Church	Cuzzy’s Brick House
Guardian Angels Catholic Church	Cy’s Bar and Grill
Meadow Spring Church	Detello’s Pizza
River Alliance Church	Johnny’s
Shepherd of the Hill Presbyterian Church	Pasta Zola
St. John’s Lutheran	Patron Mexican Bar & Grill
Valley Evangelical Free Church	Rising Dragon
Westbrook Community Church	Sake Sushi
	Tommy’s Malt Shop

With all of the recent news surrounding Prince’s death and the subsequent conversion of Paisley Park from the late artist’s home into a public museum, Chanhassen has been in the national spotlight quite a bit lately. But by no means is the museum the only attraction the city has to offer.

   

The western neighbor of Eden Prairie, Chanhassen is a charming suburb fit for a postcard. A quaint downtown, tree-lined streets, and plenty of park acreage make it a beautiful place to visit year-round, but especially in autumn, when the fall foliage is at its peak.

If a drive or stroll through town isn’t enough to satisfy your autumnal leaf cravings, then you’ll definitely want to visit the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum to see nature at its most colorful. Ranging from red maples to maroon and purple oaks, the trees here are the state’s most diverse collection. While at the arboretum, be sure to check out Pumpkin Palooza and the AppleHouse, which has an offering of more than 50 varieties of apples. We’ll bet there’s nary a doctor in sight!

Before Paisley Park opened to the public, the most well-known destination for visitors was probably the Chanhassen Dinner Theater. The theater is the nation’s largest of its kind, and more than 10 million people have enjoyed its 220+ productions over the years. It’s earned more than 1.6k 5-star reviews on Facebook alone, and fans rave about the Broadway-caliber performances, live music, amazing food, and exceptional customer service. The theater can take you from first date all the way to “I do,” as it’s a popular choice for both nights out and wedding receptions. Looking for something more low-key? Then check out the attached Brindisi’s Pub, which claims to have the best happy hour in town.  

With a median sales price of $347,500 (most homes sold for $350k+ in the last six months), the city is way ahead of the rest of Carver County and the Twin Cities region as a whole.

Chanhassen’s population is growing at a rate about twice that of Minnesota; this is the main impetus for a bevy of new development throughout the city. All the new construction is reflected in the city’s median home age of just 23 years (half of the state’s average age).

The city is overwhelmingly popular among mid-career level professionals and their families, which fuels the demand for homes with 3+ bedrooms. Luxurious neighborhoods like Longacres and Stone Creek are recognized for their beautiful spacious homes, many boasting more than 2500 square feet.

Most residents spend an average of 23 minutes traveling to work each day. For those who rely on public transportation for their commute to downtown Minneapolis and the U of M, there are two transit stations conveniently located on opposite ends of town, with eight routes making frequent roundtrips.

In 2009, Chanhassen was named the #2 best place to live in America by Money Magazine (most recently, it ranked #7 in 2015). With a high quality of life, low unemployment, unparalleled amenities, fantastic schools, well-educated residents (97% of adults have a high school diploma or higher) and homes as cute as the one seen above, these accolades come as no surprise!

Outdoor recreation and leisure activities are highly prioritized among Chanhassen residents. There are two golf courses within the city limits (Bluff Creek and Halla Greens), and Hazeltine National Golf Club (of recent Ryder Cup fame) is just a chip shot away in neighboring Chaska. When it gets too chilly to hit the links as it inevitably does every year, you can take your golf game indoors at Golf Zone, which features 40 heated driving range stalls and an 18-hole putting green.

Fitness is also important to Chanhassians. More than 90 miles of trails, 20+ parks, and five public beaches help residents stay on the move. Undoubtedly, this collective passion for a healthy lifestyle influenced the choice of Lifetime Fitness to establish headquarters in the city. More than 1,000 of the national brand’s employees are based in Chanhassen, and we’re betting those lucky people have access to the high end amenities offered by the impressive health club onsite.

  

The importance of physical well-being is imparted on residents from their early years, with a pay-as-you-go recreation center (attached to Bluff Creek Elementary School) that has served the community for over 20 years. According to the city website, the rec center “takes pride in creating a fun and friendly atmosphere for people of all ages at an affordable price. [It] is a focal point for many of the city’s recreation activities. The facilities include a gym, fitness room, aerobics/dance room, and meeting rooms.” Outside, there are tennis courts and plenty of green space. About three miles east in downtown Chanhassen is the skate park, another favorite pastime for the city’s youth.

Speaking of the youngins, there are plenty of seasonal activities that will delight both children and children-at-heart. From the annual Halloween party to February Festival to the state-renowned Fourth of July celebration, the family-friendly events are great ways for Chanhassians to connect with their community.

Of course, we can’t end this blog without mentioning Prince one more time. While the longtime community member and landowner is no doubt the most famous former resident of Chanhassen, he certainly is not the only star who’s called the city home. Minnesota congressman Erik Paulsen grew up in Chanhassen, as did NFL player Tim Mattran. Kris Humphries (yes, Kim Kardashian’s ex-husband) has a home here, and James Denton (who had his own famous Housewife) is rumored to live in the area as well.

Do you live in Chanhassen? Did you ever get a chance to meet Prince? Have you been one of the lucky few so far to tour Paisley Park? We’d love for you to share your stories in the comments!

Neighborhood Resources

Neighborhood Schools	Public Parks & Attractions
District 112	See the full list of community and regional parks here
District 276	Chanhassen Dinner Theater
Chapel Hill Academy	Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
St. Hubert Catholic School	Paisley Park
Faith Communities	Local Restaurants
Bethel Fellowship Church	Brindisi’s Pub
Chanhassen Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses	Chuckwagon Charlie’s Smokehouse & Saloon
Discovery United Methodist Church	Gina Maria’s Pizza
Family of Christ Lutheran Church	Happy Garden II
Living Christ Lutheran Church	Houlihan’s
St. Hubert Catholic Community	Kai’s Sushi & Grill
Temple of Eck, Eckankar	Na’s Thai Cafe
Westwood Community Church	Paragon Bakery
For more info on life in Chanhassen, check out this year’s Residents Guide!	Piada Italian Street Food
	Pizzaioli
	Rey Azteca

Located about 10 miles Northwest of Downtown Minneapolis, New Hope is a first-ring suburb that’s a great choice for those seeking large city convenience with small town comforts. Currently home to more than 20,000 people, the city’s population is expected to grow to 22,500 by 2030.

Back in 1936 when Crystal first became a city, not all residents supported the idea. So the rural residents in the western half of the original township broke away from the city of Crystal and formed their own township, which was named New Hope as a reflection of their ambitious endeavor.

Although New Hope eventually incorporated and became a city itself in 1953, it didn’t lose its roots of being a farming-rich community. Its agricultural history can still be seen today through the city’s community gardens and farmer’s market, the only Saturday market in the northwest suburbs, open June through October. The new Hy-Vee store also recently dedicated its own community garden in honor of the daughter of the brand’s co-founder. Sustainability is undoubtedly important to New Hope, and it definitely shows – the city was recently recognized as a “Step 3” Minnesota GreenStep award-winner, one of only 23 cities to receive this honor.

New Hope is a distinctly picturesque city that encourages residents to capture its unique beauty through the annual New Hope In Focus photo contest, which began in 2010. The competition is meant to inspire civic pride, motivate amateur and professional shutterbugs, and encourage those who live and work in New Hope to explore their city. Residents can submit pictures in four categories: people, places, nature, and youth. This year’s nominees can be seen here; voting for the People’s Choice award ends September 15th.

One of the most photogenic aspects of the city is the green space – there’s more than 200 acres of it throughout the city’s 20 parks. Impressively, nearly every New Hope home is within a quarter-mile of a city park. The crown jewel of the city’s park system is Northwood Park, which even inspired a resident to dedicate an entire blog to her beauteous observations. Check out some of the stunning sights here. For more inspiring views of nature undisturbed by human development, head on over to Dorothy Mary Park – six acres of untouched land called home by critters such as grey squirrels, red-tailed hawks, and many others.

Other recreational opportunities for residents and guests include the New Hope Village Golf Course, the New Hope Ice Arena, the soon-to-be Bassett Creek Regional Trail (connecting the city to Plymouth and Golden Valley), and the Milton C. Honsey Outdoor Pool. Open June through August, the facility features a concessions area, an Olympic‐sized pool with a drop slide and diving boards, and a separate shallow water pool with play features for young children. Just a couple blocks away is the New Hope YMCA, featuring an outdoor waterpark, perfect for hot summer (or Indian Summer) days. For those who prefer to fly high and stay dry, there’s a tier-one skate park called the “Sk8 Pad,” which opened in Civic Center Park in 2008. Human New Hopers aren’t the only ones who can enjoy the outdoors, though; there are also several off-leash dog parks throughout the city (see the 2016 resident’s guide for a full list).

New Hope is currently undergoing a period of reinvigoration. Since 2000, almost 800 new housing units have been constructed, with more big development projects in the works. Indeed, one of the city’s primary goals is to focus on the redevelopment of existing land for creative housing and commercial endeavors.

In addition, many New Hope homeowners are also updating their existing homes by expanding or making improvements that better suit their lifestyle. 2006 was the inaugural year of the Residential Property Recognition Program, which spotlights homeowners who have done a particularly outstanding job with property maintenance or improvements; remodeling, renovation or home addition; landscaping or gardens; or environmentally sensitive improvements. Highlighting these exemplary properties helps to encourage residents to display their community pride and to inspire every New Hope homeowner to make their property something special.

    

There are plenty of housing choices for those who want to share in the New Hope pride of homeownership, ranging from single family homes (previously owned or new construction) to condos, townhouses, and more. Whether you’re part of a growing family or young professionals seeking your first home (check out the MCPP [see page 21 for more info]), you will be able to find a nice, affordable option in New Hope. Since bottoming out in 2012, the city’s median sales price for single-family homes has been steadily increasing to its current level of $227,000 (see chart below).

The city of New Hope is well positioning itself for the future by continuing to provide a healthy economic base, a well‐maintained infrastructure, and public facilities to enhance the quality of life for residents. In 2001, the city established a cost efficient approach to maintaining vital infrastructure. According to the city’s website:

“The New Hope City Council made a commitment to preserve the city’s streets and parks in very good condition. A street infrastructure plan was developed based upon a detailed analysis of pavement condition throughout the city to ensure that street improvements would be made when they were most cost effective. The Council also established street and park infrastructure funds, financed through city property taxes, to pay for these ongoing improvement programs. So, while the city of New Hope’s share of property taxes may seem slightly higher than some neighboring communities, owners of taxable properties in New Hope pay no special assessments for street improvements (which often total $4,000 to $8,000 in other communities).”

Cost savings are not the only reason residents love living in New Hope. In fact, 89% of those interviewed in a recent city survey rated quality of life in the suburb as either good or excellent. One of the main factors contributing to their happiness is its location and accessibility. With the major arterials of Highway 169, Highway 100, I-694, and I-394 all nearby, New Hope has easy access to Minneapolis’ western suburbs and the entire Twin Cities area. The city is also well served by several Metro Transit bus lines and a Park and Ride facility is conveniently located for residents at 63rd Avenue and Bottineau Boulevard. 

Furthermore, New Hopers’ high quality of life is, in part, due to the dedication of the public servants. Residents have a chance to thank their local firefighters in person each October, when the West Metro Fire-Rescue District hosts an open house at the city’s three stations (including the centrally-located headquarters, seen above).

New Hope’s nearly 500 businesses also make it easy for residents to live and work all within the city’s borders. One of the largest companies headquartered here is Liberty Diversified International (LDI), which began as a small family-owned business in 1918 and has since grown to a worldwide enterprise with more than 1,500 employees. In fact, in 2006 LDI was presented with the city’s inaugural Outstanding Business Award. In the 10 years since, 26 other New Hope companies (both large and small) have been given the award, which recognizes businesses for noteworthy accomplishments such as expanding or improving a building or property, creating new jobs for residents, reaching a milestone year in business, or providing outstanding community service.

Speaking of longstanding businesses, New Hope Bowl has been a local-loved favorite for over 50 years. Recognized by its bold sign and sand volleyball courts in the parking lot, the bowling alley is so much more than lanes and pins. A popular venue for birthday parties, company gatherings, and wedding receptions alike, the lounge also serves food from the Italian Pie Shoppe. Moonlight bowling will also be starting back up for the year in October, for those who prefer knocking strikes in the dark.

The New Hope Cinema Grill and Outtakes Bar is a perfect option for so many different events: date night (dinner and a movie in one place), watching the big game (they’ve got huge screens), and birthday parties (party packages are available). There’s also stand-up comedy, live music, and an arcade. Check out showtimes here!

    

For a mid-size suburb, there is a surprisingly wide variety of dining and entertainment options in New Hope. One new hotspot is Pub 42, which took the place of The Sunshine Factory (which relocated to Plymouth after 37 years in New Hope) on the corner of Quebec and 42nd. A great happy hour, diverse menu, and options for private dining all make it a welcome addition to the neighborhood! Another enjoyable eatery is Mountain Mudd & Niko’s Bar (recently rebranded), a chill place to enjoy a cuppa joe and listen to live tunes. Don’t forget to take a look around at the eclectic interior decorations. Another local joint known for its live entertainment is Frankie’s Pizza, which also hosts trivia games every Wednesday night.

Throughout the year, New Hope also holds several seasonal celebrations that are beloved by locals and visitors alike. The annual summer festival, quirkily called Duk Duk Daze, is held the third weekend of July, and features activities such as a fire hose demo, bean bag tournament, and Frankie’s Pizza eating contest. Also at the end of July, the Off Broadway Musical Theatre presents a musical at the outdoor playhouse. Past productions include “Bye Bye Birdie,” “Sound of Music,” “Cinderella” and “Annie.” Lastly, the holidays are a big deal to New Hope residents, who get a chance to put their Christmas spirit on display through the New Hope Sparkles lighting contest. Greg and Jennifer Larson have taken their love for lighting to the next level, making Larson’s Lights a local phenomenon. The display, featuring over 100,000 lights, must be seen to be believed! Luckily, you don’t have to wait long, as this year’s opening night is just over 2.5 months away (check out the website’s countdown!).

If the city’s many amenities, growth opportunities, and entertainment options sound like a great fit for you, then consider calling New Hope home! Contact us today to find out more about moving to New Hope!

Neighborhood Resources

Neighborhood Schools	Public Parks & Attractions
District 281	See the full list of city parks here
District 287	New Hope Bowl
Faith Communities	Local Restaurants
Calvary Solid Rock	Cake Box
Evergreen Community Church	Cinema Grill & Outtakes Bar
Holy Nativity Lutheran Church	Country Kitchen
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church	DW’s Diner
House of Hope Lutheran Church	Fat Nat’s Eggs
New Hope Church	Frankie’s Pizza
Northwest Church of Christ	Gion Restaurant
St. Joseph’s Catholic Church	Hy-Vee Market Grille
For more info on life in New Hope, check out this year’s Residents Guide!	Italian Pie Shoppe
	Jet’s Pizza
	Mountain Mudd Espresso
	New Panda House
	New Wok Express
	Papa’s Cafe
	Pub 42

Known simply as “The Village” by locals, St. Anthony Village is a first-ring suburb of Minneapolis. St. Anthony, a former-township-turned-city with about 8,500 residents, should not be confused with St. Anthony Park, a neighborhood in St. Paul, nor with St. Anthony East or St. Anthony West (both are neighborhoods in Minneapolis). Despite its seemingly common name, St. Anthony is truly a one-of-a-kind city, from its geography to its beloved annual events to its emphasis on promoting small business.

The city’s geography is unique in that two-thirds of the city are located in Hennepin County, while one-third is located in Ramsey County (the dividing line is 37th Avenue). St. Anthony is also conveniently located just about five miles northeast of downtown Minneapolis and eight miles northwest of downtown St. Paul. Additionally, both the Minneapolis and St. Paul campuses of the University of Minnesota are only a 10 to 15 minute drive from St. Anthony. Despite its proximity to the big cities with their metropolitan amenities, St. Anthony has been able to maintain the advantages of small town living, which locals love. Village residents pretty much have the best of both worlds!

For covering less than 2.5 square miles, St. Anthony manages to pack in a whole lot of must-dos and must-sees. Each year, over the first weekend of August, the city hosts its summer celebration, Villagefest. Even though it’s downsizing a bit this year, attendees can still expect a lot of fun events, including a car show, street dancing, musical entertainment, a kickball tournament, a pancake breakfast, and a fireworks extravaganza. Enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, the festival has an ingenious method to draw in extra attendees this year:

  

But whether or not you’re a Pokemon Go master, you will definitely enjoy spending some time walking around St. Anthony, which features the beautiful Silver Lake and several parks, including Salo Park. Named after St. Anthony’s sister city of Salo, Finland, Salo Park is located adjacent to the highly walkable Silver Lake Village shopping center on the city’s north end. The park hosts an annual summer concert series at its amphitheater, and musical acts range from the St. Anthony Civic Orchestra to jazz bands and swing ensembles. It’s a perfect way to spend a warm summer evening, and residents appreciate the fun, free, & local entertainment!

It’s really no wonder Villagers enjoys listening to music in the park, given that the city puts such a strong emphasis on arts and culture. The St. Anthony Community Theater, for instance, has grown from putting on a 12-person production in 2001 to being today’s theatrical destination in the area. Since it was established 15 years ago, the theater has put its own spin on popular plays such as Mary Poppins, Seussical the Musical, A Christmas Carol, and The Wizard of Oz. There are plenty of opportunities for performers and stagehands alike, and it’s a great way for creators of all ages to get involved with their community.  For artists who prefer slinging paint to singing show tunes, there’s Created to Grow, an arts center that provides creative education in the form of instructor lead art classes and guided open studio creativity. If that sounds a bit too tame for you, then try out Wine and Canvas, where you can combine your love of design with a drink of fine wine. And who knows? Perhaps one day you’ll see your creation on display at Corner Books, a bookshop that showcases the work of local artists. 

The median sales price for homes in St. Anthony as of July 2016 is just over $240,000 while the number for the metro area as a whole is hovering around $227,000.

  

Most houses in the Village were built in the 1940s & ’50s, during the post-war housing boom, thus the abundance of suburban ramblers and bungalows that were favored at the time. However, more recently, the city has seen its share of development, which would explain the newer construction condos, townhouses, and apartments, especially around the Silver Lake area. Considering the housing stock, it comes as no surprise then that a large portion of the St. Anthony population are married couples without children, who like the area for its amenities, walkability, and proximity to both Twin Cities.

If you’re a family looking to move to the area, though, don’t fret – there are plenty of housing options for you too. Over the last six months, single-family homes with 3+ bedrooms in the city have been going for around $250,000 and up. And if you’re searching for an exceptional school district for your children, then St. Anthony might definitely be your best bet. Last year, St. Anthony Village Senior High School was one of ten Minnesota high schools to rank on Newsweek’s Top 500, and in 2014 the school was given a gold medal by the US News and World Report.  

High schoolers aren’t the only ones who thrive in St. Anthony; small businesses also experience the perks of being part of a tight-knit community. The St. Anthony Chamber of Commerce, for one, works hard to make sure all business owners who come to the city feel welcome and appreciated, by holding a ribbon cutting for all new businesses. The chamber also hosts a myriad of events to encourage entrepreneurship, including happy hours and workshops that teach local proprietors how to better their businesses. The chamber doesn’t stop there, though. Each year, they name an Outstanding Business of the Year, an award established in 1993 to recognize an outstanding business located in or serving the community of St. Anthony Village. For individuals, there’s the Villager of the Year Award, which honors and recognizes a resident of St. Anthony who has made outstanding contributions to improve the quality of life in the community. Both award winners are honored with a celebratory dinner in April. 

Speaking of dinner…the Village has a sizable selection of dining options, ranging from some of the best Mexican cuisine in the Twin Cities at Catrina’s to all-you-can-eat Chinese food at Great Dragon. Maybe you’re in the mood for some basic-but-tasty bar food. To satisfy that craving, you’ll want to head to The Unofficial Dive Bar & Grill, which just celebrated its grand re-opening over the weekend. It’s officially the best place in town to grab a burger or beer or to play some Bingo. 

If you’re looking for a city that feels like a Village, or a small town that has access to all the amenities of a big city, then St. Anthony is probably for you! Check it out today!

 

Neighborhood Resources

Neighborhood Schools	Faith Communities
St. Anthony Middle School	Abu-Huraira Islamic Center
St. Anthony Village Alternative School	Church of St. Charles Borromeo
St. Anthony Village Senior High School	Elmwood Evangelical Free Church
St. Charles Catholic School	Faith United Methodist Church
Wilshire Park Elementary School	Nativity Lutheran Church
Public Parks & Attractions	Local Restaurants
Central Park	Annona Gourmet
Emerald Park	Broadway Pizza
Gross National Golf Club	Catrina’s Mexican Restaurant
Salo Park & Amphitheater	Great Dragon
Silver Lake Village	TeaSource
Silver Point Park	The Unofficial Dive Bar & Grill
Silverwood Park	Village Pub
Trillium Park

St. Paul’s Como Park (more commonly known as Como) is one of the Twin Cities’ most vibrant neighborhoods, both figuratively and literally. Known for its lush multicolored gardens, Como finds new ways to showcase its floral beauties throughout the year. Each year, the neighborhood hosts the Como Park Garden Tour, which features a dozen local gardens that are too pretty to be missed. And of course, there is the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory, a floral paradise perennially in bloom that just celebrated its 100th birthday in 2015. This year, its annual Summer Flower Show (open now through the beginning of October) will feature a lily named “Purple Prince” in honor of Minnesota’s beloved late musician.

  

In conjunction with the conservatory, the neighborhood’s biggest attraction is, without a doubt, the Como Park Zoo. The zoo and conservatory grounds feature a wide variety of family-friendly activities, including everything from animal exhibits to a historic carousel to an amusement park. You’ll find that the zoo is a favorite destination for school field trips because admission for all is FREE 365 days per year (with a request for donations when possible). Throughout the year, there are many special events held at the zoo and conservatory, including Groovin’ in the Garden (a summer concert series – see 2016’s schedule here), the Travelers Sunset Affair in July, the Japanese Lantern Lighting Festival in August, and ZooBoo for Halloween. The month of July is particularly special, thanks to Como Fest, a neighborhood-wide celebration that promises fun events every weekend of the month.

  

  

Though they have a lot to offer on their own, the zoo and conservatory are just part of the larger Como Regional Park area. In less than a square mile space, the neighborhood manages to squeeze in a ski center, golf course, community pool/waterpark, plenty of green space, and oh yeah, a lake! Como Lake is especially popular during the summer, when it’s riddled with paddle boats and fishing poles.

While Como is most well-known for its attractions, which draw visitors from near and far, it is also called home on a daily basis by nearly 12,000 people. Buyers, on average, pay around $224,500 to purchase a home here, while the median home estimated value is at $220,380 (as of May 2016), higher than the median for both Ramsey County and Minnesota as a whole. Como’s median home age is 75 years, and the neighborhood features a variety of housing styles. Driving around, you’ll see everything from large Victorian-era homes by the lake, to 1920’s one-and-a-half stories and 1950’s ranches elsewhere.

  

Como is a perfect choice for young professionals and mid-career businesspeople, as most residents are between ages 24 to 54. With a 15-minute drive to downtown St. Paul and only a few minutes longer ride to downtown Minneapolis, it’s easy to see why they would choose this neighborhood. In fact, since Como is so centrally located between the two downtowns, 50% of residents have only a 15-30 minute commute to work. Easy access to I-94, 35E and 35W – the gateways to essentially anywhere you need to go throughout the metro area – means convenience couldn’t be better. Como is even served by several bus routes: lines 3, 61, 65, and 83 (a couple of which directly serve the Como Regional Park area). Once you know that 81% of Como’s St. Paulites have a 2-year college degree or more, it’s easy to see why they’ve made the smart decision to live here. Moreover, 10% of the residents are employed in education (more than any other single sector in the neighborhood).

For having a relatively small geographic footprint, the Como neighborhood sure does have a generous selection of dining options per capita, ranging from Asian cuisine to pub eats to seaside delicacies. Nelson Cheese & Deli (pictured below) is a local eatery with cheese offerings from around the state. Meanwhile, Half Time Rec has been called the “Best Restaurant to Take Out-of-Towners” by City Pages and was even featured in the 1990s comedy film Grumpy Old Men. But if you feel like eating outside and having a great view of the lake,  then Como Dockside will surely satisfy your tastebuds.

Of course, come August and September, the Minnesota State Fair is in full swing, and it’s located right across Snelling Avenue. Living in Como, you could walk, bike, or bus to the fairgrounds and avoid the hassle of traffic and parking. Or if you prefer to head out of town when the fair comes to town, just think of the Airbnb potential (there’s nothing wrong with earning some extra income to help with your mortgage). Como is also just a short drive through Falcon Heights to Roseville and all of its shopping amenities. 

So if you’re looking for a centrally located neighborhood with plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities, search no further than Como!

Neighborhood Resources

Neighborhood Schools	Faith Communities
Como Park Elementary	Bethel Lutheran Church
Como Park Senior High	Celestial Church of Christ
Great River School	Emmaus Lutheran Church
Hmong College Prep Academy	Holy Childhood Church
Metro Deaf School	Mission Orthodox Presbyterian Church
Twin Cities German Immersion School	Mt. Olive Lutheran Church
	St. Timothy Lutheran Church
Public Parks & Attractions	Local Restaurants
Cafesjian’s Carousel	Café 99
Charlotte Partridge Ordway Japanese Garden	Como Dockside
Como Golf Course	Cozy’s Pub
Como Park Ski Center	Half Time Rec
Como Park Zoo	Mac’s Fish & Chips
Como Regional Park	Nelson Cheese & Deli
Como Town	The Original Gabe’s by the Park
Marjorie McNeely Conservatory	Shanghai Market
McMurray Fields	Underground Music Café
North Dale Recreation Center	Zobota Café
Northwest Como Recreation Center
Orchard Park & Recreation Center
Tilden Park

Welcome to St. Louis Park, aka the hometown of RNR Realty! A first-ring suburb of Minneapolis, this popular city has also been called home by the likes of Senator Al Franken, the illustrious Coen Brothers (of Fargo fame), and Nordic Ware (inventor of the Bundt cake pan). There are many reasons these diverse residents have decided to settle in St. Louis Park, including its proximity to downtown Minneapolis.

Besides small businesses and movie-making visionaries, 46.5k people currently call St. Louis Park home. It’s a great choice for married couples, especially those with children, as School District 283 is one of the best in the state. Indeed, it is the only district in the state to have all public schools recognized as National Blue Ribbon Schools. SLP High School has been ranked among the top senior highs in the country. At the end of this school year, the distinguished district will celebrate its 125th anniversary.

St. Louis Park has a wide variety of housing options, with a mixture of single-family homes, condos, and apartments. The median estimated home value is around $251k (up nearly 4% from the previous year), and about 57% of SLP residents own their home rather than rent. The median home listing price is about $350k, a good $50k more than Hennepin County as a whole.

Each June, over Father’s Day weekend, St. Louis Park puts on its “splash into summer” festival, Parktacular. This community celebration has been around since the early 1900s (undergoing a few name changes along the way), and currently draws annual crowds in the thousands. It includes events such as the Grand Day Parade (a local favorite), food truck faire, business expo, and Kidtacular. A majority of the events will take place at Wolfe Park, located near the Rec Center.

Long after the Parktacular festivities are over, you’ll find plenty to do in St. Louis Park. There is certainly no shortage of shopping opportunities – large retail centers include West End and Shoppes at Knollwood. Excelsior & Grand and Miracle Mile also have a broad selection of shops and dining options. From small boutiques like Mama’s Happy to the ever-popular Opitz and Annex outlet stores, everyone in the family will find something to fit their needs.

If you’re feeling hungry, the city has plenty of unique restaurants to whet your appetite. Park Tavern is a good choice if you want a casual setting that offers delicious food and bowling. Want something a little sleeker? Look no further than The Loop at West End or McCoy’s Public House. Craving something sweet? Then be sure to try out Honey & Rye Bakehouse, Muddy Paws Cheesecake, or Yum! Kitchen & Bakery.

For those interested in taking a step into the past, there’s the Pavek Museum of Broadcasting, which holds one of the largest collections of vintage radio and television equipment. Looking for some fun that involves a bit more action? For that, there’s the hotspot Roller Garden, at the junction of W Lake St and Minnetonka Blvd or the Rec Center, featuring a skate shop, aquatic park and two ice arenas (photos above).

The city’s main thoroughfares are Highways 100, 169, 394, and MN-7. Also served by multiple bus routes, many of which travel through the Louisiana Avenue Transit Center, St. Louis Park is easily accessible from downtown Minneapolis and several surrounding suburbs via public transportation. There are even plans to extend the light rail’s Green Line through the city on its way to Eden Prairie, which would connect the cities even better. The extension is projected to be completed by 2020.

If you’re looking for a city with the comforts of suburban living and the convenience and amenities of being near Downtown Minneapolis, then St. Louis Park might be the right choice for you!

Neighborhood Resources

Neighborhood Schools	Faith Communities
St. Louis Park School District	Aldersgate United Methodist
Bais Yaakov High School	Anchor  Bible Church
Benilde-St. Margaret’s	The Gate Church
The French Academy of Minnesota	Giving in Grace at Soul’s Harbor
Groves Academy	Holy Family Catholic Church
Holy Family Academy	Knollwood Church of Christ
Metropolitan Open School	Lutheran Church – Reformation
Minneapolis Jewish Day School	Park Assembly of God
Talmud Torah of Minneapolis	Park Community Church
Timothy Lutheran School	Peace Presbyterian Church
Torah Academy	Prince-Peace Lutheran Church
Academy of Whole Learning	Slavic Church Light of the World
	Spirit of Christ Community Lutheran Church
	St. George’s Episcopal Church
	Timothy Lutheran Church
	Westwood Lutheran Church
Public Parks & Attractions	Local Restaurants
Aquila Park	Bluefox Indian Bar & Grill
Oak Hill Park	Bonefish Grill
Rotary Northside Park	Bunny’s Bar & Grill
Wolfe Park	Cooper Pub
More Neighborhood Parks	Gael’s Gourmet
Pavek Museum of Broadcasting	Honey and Rye Bakehouse
The Shops at West End	Kip’s Irish Pub
Showplace Icon Theatre	The Loop West End
Steel Toe Brewing	McCoy’s Public House
Westwood Hills Nature Reserve	Mill Valley Kitchen
	Muddy Paws Cheesecake
	Muffin Man Cafe & Bakery
	Nelson’s Meat Catering Deli
	Park Tavern
	Thanh Do
	Vescio’s Cucina
	Vitali’s Bistro
	Wok in the Park
	Yangtze
	Yard House
	Yum! Kitchen & Bakery